Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Agan.
Hi Ashley, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Originating from the small town of Blue Ridge, Texas, I am the eldest of three siblings and though it may sound cheesy, I have always dreamed of making a meaningful impact on the world. My interest in mathematics and science led me to pursue Biomedical Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin, followed by a medical degree from UT Medical Branch in Galveston. Subsequently, I completed my otolaryngology (Ear, Nose, & Throat surgery) residency at UT Southwestern in Dallas, developing advanced surgical skills and engaging with complex patient cases. In 2020, I earned an Executive MBA from UT Dallas, equipping me with expertise to integrate clinical excellence with the complexities of healthcare management.
I served as a faculty member at UT Southwestern for nearly eight years, instructing both medical students and residents. Although I found satisfaction in academic medicine, I yearned for an approach to patient care that aligned more closely with my core values. I wanted to create the patient experience that I would want for myself and my family.
My introduction to direct care highlighted the potential benefits of working directly with patients. It became clear that eliminating insurance bureaucracy opened up a world of possibilities for what going to the doctor could be like. Observing peers in primary care transition to this model prompted me to consider its application within a surgical specialty such as ENT. Ultimately, in 2024, I decided to take a leap of faith, embrace the opportunity for innovation, and pioneer this approach myself.
Personal experiences also shaped my perspective, particularly in 2022 when my grandmother was diagnosed with metastatic ovarian cancer. Accompanying her through treatments revealed significant fragmentation and challenges within the healthcare system, including frequent miscommunication and an overall poor patient experience. Her passing in 2023 strengthened my resolve to improve patient care delivery. In honor of my grandmother, who was known affectionately as Scottie, I established my direct care practice to embody her spirit of compassion, courage, and vitality.
At Scottie, we strive to offer patients personalized and accessible care, including extended consultations, prompt appointments, and focused attention devoid of the limitations often present in traditional healthcare environments. We don’t contract with commercial insurance companies, which means we are not subject to the restrictions imposed by insurance. We can spend more time and attention on patients and even offer cutting edge therapies. Patients get a better experience, and I get to practice medicine in a way that is nourishing to my mind and soul.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Choosing the road less traveled often presents significant challenges. I remind myself; if it were easy, everyone would do it! Over the past two years, my perspective on adversity has shifted. I now view obstacles as essential for growth, much like how pressure forms diamonds and discomfort fosters meaningful progress. Embracing challenges has become an integral part of my philosophy.
There is no established framework for operating a direct care ENT practice, as only a small number of ENT specialists have pursued this model. Many colleagues initially questioned my decision, and I have had to adapt and innovate along the way, recognizing that strategies effective in traditional private practice do not always translate to the direct care environment.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Scottie?
At Scottie, our mission is simple: to go above and beyond for our patients and earn their trust at every step. What truly sets us apart is the way we care for people. Here, you’re family. We’re a small but mighty team, and that personal touch is woven into everything we do. My sister, Alix, with her background in hospitality, runs the front office—so when you call, you’ll always hear the same friendly voice. That kind of consistency and connection is rare in traditional healthcare, but it’s at the heart of our practice.
I’m also proud to be one of the few physicians in DFW offering in-office ear tubes for pediatric patients. This option is especially meaningful for families whose children struggle with recurring ear infections. It’s innovations like these, combined with personalized service, that make Scottie a different kind of ENT practice, one designed entirely around patients and their families.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
At work, I love getting to know my patients, and when they tell me they have a better quality of life because of a surgery that I performed or a treatment that I recommended, it fills my heart. I am so happy to be making a difference in the world, one patient at a time.
At home, spending quality time with my husband, Marcelo, and our almost 4-year-old daughter, Penelope, brings me the most joy. It’s grounding and reminds me what matters most. I also love being outdoors and gardening; it gives me a sense of peace and connection with nature.
Pricing:
- Adult Consultations: $350
- Pediatric Consultations: $300
- Pediatric In-Office Ear Tubes: $2750
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.scottieent.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashleyaganmd/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Ashley-Agan/61556091021093/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyagan/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoWGduCLZzJ5wUcIcgq0Bwg
Image Credits
Photos by: Jordan Fraker
